Ultrarunning specialists Mark Darbyshire and Lucy Gossage have again smashed the record books open, this time at the South Downs Way 100, where the men’s previous record has stood since 2014.
The South Downs Way 100 by Centurion Running is a nonstop race that covers the entire South Downs Way National Trail. Starting just outside Winchester, the course traverses east until its end in Eastbourne, encountering “rolling hills, ancient forts, picturesque villages and expansive views.”
Mark Darbyshire is no rookie regarding securing his position at the top of the podium. In 2024 alone, he took first place at the Arc of Attrition, Ultra Trail Snowdonia (100-mile), Lakeland 100 and the Yr Wyddfa Ultra 50. Other first places include 13 Valleys and the Lakes Traverse (2023).
Oncologist Lucy Gossage specialises in the ultra-distance. She has 14 Ironman championships under her belt, most recently winning the 2025 Winter Spine Race (87:41:38).
This weekend, Mark’s most recent excursion on the South Downs Way 100 saw another incredible performance. He came in first place with an impressive time of 13:42:54, smashing the previous course record held by Mark Perkins since 2014 (14:03:54) by almost 30 minutes.
Gossage stormed to victory in the women’s race after a tense battle with Julia Davis early in the race. Taking the course record from Bethan Male (2022 – 16:49:57), Gossage gained 20 minutes, coming in at 16:30:35.
- Mark Darbyshire 13:42:54
- Hugh Tibbs 14:13:02
- Morgan Glazier 14:41
- Lucy Gossage 16:30:35
- Julia Davis 16:43:08
- Nicole Frisby 16:58:45
EverUltra 
Leave a comment